During this season of Lent, when we desire to draw closer to Jesus, one meaningful way to do so is through films and series inspired by His Passion and the sacrifice he made out of love for each of us.
Here is a selection of both recent productions and older classics that can inspire prayer and help us encounter Jesus more deeply as we spiritually prepare for Holy Week.
1) The Passion of the Christ (2004)
Directed by Mel Gibson and starring Jim Caviezel, this powerful film portrays the final hours of Jesus’ life, from his prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane to his crucifixion.
The movie is both realistic and deeply moving, immersing viewers in what the Lord endured and helping us remember the immense love behind his sacrifice.
You can find it on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Daily Wire+.
2) Marcelino Bread and Wine (1955)
This classic film is one of the most tender and moving movies you will ever see about Jesus on the Cross and a young orphan named Marcelino.
It became one of the greatest commercial and critical successes in the history of Spanish cinema and went far beyond the typical conventions of religious films at the time.
The movie is based on the novel of the same name by José María Sánchez-Silva.
You cannot miss it—it truly feels like a hug for the heart.
3) The Chosen: The Last Supper (2025)
These episodes from season five of the popular series "The Chosen" focus on the final moments Jesus spends with his disciples before his Passion and death, centered around the Last Supper.
It is worth watching the entire season as we await the premiere of the sixth season in 2027.
You can find it on the official website of the series and on Amazon Prime.
4) Paul, Apostle of Christ (2018)
This film tells the story of Paul the Apostle and his crucial role in the early Church before he was executed under the persecution of Emperor Nero in Rome.
The film stars James Faulkner and Jim Caviezel.
You can find it on YouTube and Amazon Prime.
5) Of Gods and Men (2010)
This film tells the true story of the Cistercian monks of Tibhirine, Algeria, from 1993 until their kidnapping in 1996.
Seven monks were abducted and later killed by Islamic terrorists.
It is a powerful and moving story of freedom, martyrdom, and love lived to the very end.
You can find it on YouTube and Amazon Prime.
6) Risen (2016)
Directed by Kevin Reynolds and starring Joseph Fiennes, this film tells the story of Clavius, a Roman tribune ordered by Pontius Pilate to crucify three rebels, including a man named Jesus of Nazareth.
Clavius is also tasked with securing Jesus’ tomb with a guard of soldiers. However, everything changes when he discovers that the body has disappeared and the tomb is empty.
You can find it on Amazon, YouTube, and Apple TV.
7) The Chronicles of Narnia (Film Series)
The first film in this series, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, was released in 2005 and is based on the beloved books by C. S. Lewis.
Two additional films followed: Prince Caspian (2008) and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010).
Filled with Christian allegories, these films transport viewers to a fantasy world rich with spiritual lessons about love, sacrifice, and life conquering death.
You can stream them on Disney+.
8) Les Misérables (2012)
Based on the famous novel by Victor Hugo, this musical film takes place in France beginning in 1815 and tells the story of Jean Valjean and the people whose lives intertwine with his.
Amid suffering and hardship, the characters discover redemption, faith, and hope even in the most difficult circumstances.
It is a great literary classic you should not miss.
You can find it on Peacock, Amazon, YouTube, and Apple TV.